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Minutes

Stated Meeting, May 13, 1999

Philadelphia City CouncilMay 13, 1999

People mentioned

Names our system found in this transcript. Automatically extracted, so it can include anyone named in the record, not only officials or parties.

Organizations mentioned

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA STATED MEETING Thursday, May 13, 1999 10:25 a.m. Room 400, City Hall Philadelphia, Pennsylvania PRESENT: COUNCIL PRESIDENT ANNA C. VERNA COUNCILWOMAN JANNIE BLACKWELL COUNCILMAN DAVID COHEN COUNCILWOMAN JOAN L. KRAJEWSKI COUNCILMAN JAMES F. KENNEY COUNCILWOMAN DONNA REED MILLER COUNCILMAN MICHAEL A. NUTTER COUNCILWOMAN MARIAN B. TASCO COUNCILMAN ANGEL L. ORTIZ COUNCILMAN FRANK DICICCO COUNCILMAN BRIAN J. O'NEILL COUNCILMAN RICHARD T. MARIANO COUNCILMAN W. THACHER LONGSTRETH COUNCILMAN FRANK RIZZO MARIE HAUSER, Chief Clerk VINCENT VARALLO ASSOCIATES, INC. Registered Professional Reporters Eleven Penn Center, Suite 600 Philadelphia, PA 19103 GREETING/INVOCATION P R O C E E D I N G S

Council President Verna

I note that the hour has come and that a quorum of this Council is present. The Council will come to order, members will take their seats, visitors will retire to the seats outside the rails. To give our invocation this morning, the Chair welcomes Father Terrence Roper, Pastor of the Church of the Holy Trinity. He is here today as the guest of Councilman Longstreth. Members and guests will please ride. (All rise.)

Father Roper

Let us pray. Almighty and most merciful God, we offer you our prayers for the City Council of Philadelphia. Guide with your infinite wisdom and grace the elected offices of this body, that they may make wise decisions for the benefit of your people and serve as Godly examples in all that they do. In times of conflict and division, enable them to seek and find a just and proper way that your people may be governed wisely and that all things may work together for the common good. GREETING/INVOCATION Let not the temptation of the easy answer distract them from the right and proper course. And may justice and mercy find their proper places in the decisions they make. O, Lord, let your people have respect for their elected elders, and preserve harmony and good will in leaders and people alike. We remember before you this day, O, Lord, those who work in all the departments and agencies of our city. May they be safe and secure as they go about their business for this community, and may nothing befall them that will cause them distress. Remember the poor, the homeless, those in distress, and those who have no one to help them. Let not the needy, O, Lord, be forgotten, nor the hope of the poor be taken away. Give your peace and your blessing to those who have lost their lives in the service of this city and those who have served this city in any capacity and who have now gone to their eternal rest. May we be ever mindful of the sacrifices they have made and remember them with gratitude. 5/6/99 JOURNAL APPROVAL In God's name, amen. ALL: Amen.

Council President Verna

The Chair the Chair thanks Father Roper for his inspiring invocation. (Council stands at ease.)

Council President Verna

The next order of business is the approval of the Journal of May 6, 1999. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Madam President, I move the Journal of May 9, 1999 be approved.

Council President Verna

Is there a second? (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the Journal of the meeting of Thursday, May 6, 1999, stand approved. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. The Journal of LEAVES OF ABSENCE Thursday, May 6, 1999 stands approved.

Council President Verna

The next order of business is leaves of absence. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Madam President, I believe the only requested leave of absence for the Majority is by Councilwoman Clark.

Council President Verna

Leave will be granted. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Councilman Cohen

Madam Chair, on behalf of the Republicans, there are no requests for leaves of absence.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the gentleman.

Council President Verna

The Chair will dispense with the regular order of business to recognize the guests and visitors joining us in chambers this morning. On behalf of all members of City Council, I welcome you to our Council session this VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS morning. We appreciate your taking the time to join us as we attend to the legislative affairs of our city. We invite you to come again. This morning, Council is honoring the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. I invite Councilman Cohen to come and make this presentation. Councilman Cohen? (Councilman Cohen and members of B'nai B'rith Youth Organization come forward.)

Councilman Cohen

This is a resolution in celebration of 75 years of the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. Whereas, the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization is the oldest and largest Jewish youth organization in the world, with chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Israel, Europe, and South America; and Whereas, Mayor Richardson Dilworth wrote in 1961 of the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization, and this is a quote: "With devotion and determination, it has cleaved to its purposes the training of young men and women for their role as citizens, it is fitting, therefore, that the City of Philadelphia pay tribute to the B'nai VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS B'rith Youth Organization." The B'nai B'rith organization continues along the same lines to this day; and Whereas, in this, the 75th year of its existence, the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization counts 100 young people in the City of Philadelphia and over 500 in the greater metropolitan area among its membership; and Whereas, the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization is composed of the B'nai B'rith girls and the Alpha Zedek Alpha for Boys and strives to assist them as they develop their identity, leadership skills, and community responsibility; and Whereas, the Alpha Zedek Alpha was founded as an international order on May 3, 1924 in Omaha, Nebraska, by Sam Beber and has been working with boys throughout the world and here in Philadelphia since that time; and Whereas, Alpha Zedek Alpha, its activities and programs are an asset to the City of Philadelphia, as it endeavors to develop the citizenship and the civic responsibility of its young men of every race, religion, and creed; VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS Now, therefore, resolved by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Alpha Zedek Alpha of the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization that we join in honoring this organization for its continuing efforts over these 75 years to build a cadre of young men with dedication to the principle of their faith, this city, and the country. Resolved further that an engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization and with the sincere good wishes of the legislative body on its 75th anniversary and for its continued work to direct the energies of youth in their most constructive directions. Signed by President of City Council Anna C. Verna, introduced by Councilmembers David Cohen and Richard Mariano, and cosponsored by all members of City Council. (Applause.)

Councilman Cohen

Thank you. Mr. Weinbaum, I am delighted to present to you and on behalf of the others in your VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS delegation, the organization, this resolution.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Mr. Elliot Weinbaum for remarks.

Mr. Weinbaum

Madam President, Councilman Cohen, members of Council, other esteemed guests, thank you so much for honoring the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization with this resolution. Seventy-five years ago, a young man by the name of Sam Beber was bursting with energy but was denied entry into several organizations because of his religion. He sought to put his intellect and energy to a most creative purpose and founded the Alpha Zedek Alpha, a fraternal organization for boys to build leadership, to develop identity, and to enjoy each other's company. From that beginning in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1924, we have grown and prospered and are now the oldest and largest Jewish youth organization, involving over 25,000 Jewish boys and girls. Here in the Philadelphia area, we are not working with approximately 600 teens to train them in democratic processes, develop self-esteem, identity, and a sense of community. Our VISITOR RECOGNITION/PRESENTATIONS participants are involved in social, educational, athletic, and community activities. They develop leadership through a range of offices and important functions filled by the youth themselves. And most importantly, they are helped to use their youthful energy for creative and productive purposes. In recognizing the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization today, you validate the positive things that teens are doing in our community, focussing on the growth and self-improvement that are essential parts of any healthy maturation process. We have heard so much in recent days of the tragedies that can occur when youthful ingenuity and determination are not well directed. Today, you give recognition to the blessings that may be found when they are. On behalf of the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization, its staff, and most importantly, its teenage members in Philadelphia and around the world, we thank you for this honor today. (Applause.)

Council President Verna

Council will stand at ease. COMMUNICATIONS

Council President Verna

The next order of business is communications. The Chair recognizes the sergeant-at-arms for the purpose of delivering the messages from the mayor to the chief clerk. The chief clerk will read the messages from the mayor.

Chief Clerk Hauser

May 10, 1999, to the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. I am pleased to advise you that I have today signed the following bills which were passed by Council at its session April 29th: Bill No. 980890, 990026, 990027, 990028, 990110, 990114, 990157, and 990186. And May 6th. To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia. I am pleased to advise you I have today signed the following bill: Bill No. 990116. L. 465, No. 113, as amended, in the Ashton COMMUNICATIONS Redevelopment Area, in an area generally bounded by Grant Avenue on the north, Ashton Road on the east, Willits Road on the south, and Bluegrass Road on the west. L. 465, No. 113, as amended, in the Whittaker Redevelopment Area, in an area generally bounded by Cheltenham Avenue on the north, Somerdale Avenue on the east, a right-of-way of Conrail's former Frankford Branch or a Sears site on the south, and Whittaker Avenue on the west. And an ordinance approving the redevelopment proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Jefferson Square Redevelopment Area, Jefferson Square Urban Renewal Area, the area generally bounded by Washington Avenue on the north, South Fourth Street on the east, Dickinson Street on the south, and South COMMUNICATIONS Sixth Street on the west, by approving the Urban Renewal Plan and determining that such plan and redevelopment proposal conforms to the General Locality Plan. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal, the Urban Renewal Plan, and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of Mantua Urban Renewal Area by approving the 9th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal and the 6th Amendment of the Urban Renewal Plan by providing inter alia for certain additional land acquisition of five additional properties. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal of the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area by approving the 24th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal, the 16th Amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan, and the 16th COMMUNICATIONS Amendment to the Relocation Plan, which provide inter alia for an additional land acquisition of approximately 57 properties. And an ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987 which approved the Redevelopment Proposal and the Urban Renewal Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area by approving the 6th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal and the 6th amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan, which provide inter alia for the additional land acquisition of approximately four properties. And an ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") for a Community Development Block Grant ("CDBG"), as required by Section 104 of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, designating the Mayor and the Director of the Office of Housing and Community Development to make an application to provide such additional information as may be required. COMMUNICATIONS And a resolution authorizing the Office of Emergency Shelter and Service to apply on behalf of the City of Philadelphia to the Department of Community Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for funds for a project for the prevention and alleviation of homelessness in Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The messages will be printed in the Journal. The chief clerk will read any other communications in her possession.

Chief Clerk Hauser

I have none, Madam President.

Council President Verna

Thank you

Council President Verna

The next order of business is the introduction of bills and resolutions. At this time, the Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell to ask for a suspension of the rules.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Madam President, we ask for a suspension of the rules so that each resolution may be considered when INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS introduced.

Council President Verna

Do I hear a second? (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit immediate consideration of resolutions at the time of introduction. All in favor will vote aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell for the introduction of any bills or resolutions.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Madam President, I have two bills, one resolution on my behalf, and a second resolution on your behalf and my behalf.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City, to file an application with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") for a Community Development Block Grant ("CDBG"), as required by Section 104 of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal, the Urban Renewal Plan, and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Mantua Urban Renewal Area by approving the 9th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal and the 6th Amendment of the Urban Renewal Plan.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The chief clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the Office of Emergency Shelter INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Services to apply, on behalf City of the City of Philadelphia, to the Department of Community and Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for funds for a project for the prevention and alleviation of homelessness in Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

This resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And a resolution honoring the Bartram high-school students who received the Presidential Environmental Youth Award.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Blackwell.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Madam President, I move the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The motion is carried. The adoption -yes, Councilwoman?

Councilwoman Blackwell

Madam INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS President, I need to leave the Council on business, on City business, and certainly would like to be record aye as voting on all bills and resolutions. But may I also introduce my committee report out of turn so that I may leave Council early, the Finance Chair Committee Report?

Council President Verna

Well, why don't you give it to Councilman Cohen, and he can do that for you.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Okay. Because otherwise, it will come after all bills and resolutions; am I correct?

Council President Verna

Yes.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Okay, thank you.

Council President Verna

But why don't you give it to Councilman Cohen, and he can report the committee report for you.

Councilwoman Blackwell

Thank you.

Council President Verna

Okay. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.

Councilman Cohen

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions. INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS

Council President Verna

And the Chair recognizes what appears to be a very loving, loving grandmother, Councilwoman Krajewski.

Councilwoman Krajewski

Thank you, Madam President. I have one resolution.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution honoring the Ellis Coffee Company on the occasion of its 145th anniversary.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Krajewski.

Councilwoman Krajewski

I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, the motion is carried. INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to introduce two resolutions.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the first resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution honoring and commending Lieutenant Richard Woertz, Sergeant Michael Houck, Detective Stephen Nathan, Police Officer William Pullar, Police Officer Jay Rycek, Police Officer Richard Kobierowski, Police Officer John Powell, Police Officer Joseph Wolk, Police Officer William Devine, Police Officer Jack Logan, Police Officer John Faber, Police Officer Francis Leaden for their exceptional conduct in pursuing and apprehending a heavily-armed bank robbery suspect on October 6, 1998.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

I move for the adoption.

Council President Verna

Do I hear a second? INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it and the motion carried. The chief clerk will please read the title of the second resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution agreeing to participate in the Whitaker Tax Increment Financing District, if it should be created by the Council of the City of Philadelphia, in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act of July 11, 1990, P.L. 465, No. 113, as amended, in the Whitaker Redevelopment Area, in an area generally bounded by Cheltenham Avenue on the north, Somerdale Avenue on the east, the right-of-way of Conrail former Frankford Branch or a former Sears site on the south, and Whitaker Avenue on the west; and designating the mayor or his designees as the City's representative for INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS purposes of meeting with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Mariano.

Councilman Mariano

I move for the adoption. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. On behalf of the 5th District, I offer two bills.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance amending an ordinance approved December 22, 1987 which approved the Redevelopment Proposal and the INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Urban Renewal Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Cecil B. Moore Avenue Urban Renewal Area by approving the 6th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal and the 6th Amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan which provide inter alia for the additional land acquisition of approximately four properties.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The chief clerk will please read the title of the second bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance approved December 15, 1969, as amended, which approved the Redevelopment Proposal and the Urban Renewal Plan and the Relocation Plan of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of the Model Cities Urban Renewal Area by approving the 24th Amendment of the Redevelopment Proposal, the 16th Amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan, and the 15th Amendment to the Relocation Plan, which provide inter alia for additional land acquisition of approximately 57 properties. INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution honoring and commending Convent House Health Services as it celebrates its 35th year of providing quality health-care services to the Germantown community.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Miller.

Councilwoman Miller

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The ayes have it, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Nutter.

Councilman Nutter

Madam President, I offer one bill and one resolution.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance providing for the submission to the qualified electors of the City of Philadelphia of an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to make ineligible for elective City office any person other than an elected City official seeking reelection who uses campaign funds contributed for his or her benefits while the person served as a City official or employee in the year prior to the election in which the person is a candidate, fixing the date of a special election for such purpose proscribing the form of ballot question to be voted on, and authorizing the appropriate officers to publish notice and to make arrangements for the special election.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to make ineligible for elective City office any person other than an elected City official seeking reelection who uses campaign funds contributed for his or her benefit while the person served as a City official or employee in the year prior to the election in which the person is a candidate, and providing for the submission of the amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilwoman Tasco.

Councilwoman Tasco

Madam President, I offer one resolution.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution authorizing the City Council Committee on Law and INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Government to hold hearings and to conduct an investigation on the power of the Mayor to remove an appointed commissioner from the Philadelphia Gas Commission.

Council President Verna

The resolution will be referred to the appropriate committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Ortiz.

Councilman Ortiz

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions.

Council President Verna

The Chair thank the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Councilman Dicicco

Thank you, Madam President. I offer one resolution and four bills.

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance approving the Redevelopment Proposal of the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Philadelphia for the redevelopment of a portion of the Jefferson Square Redevelopment Area, Jefferson INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Square Urban Renewal Area, being the area generally bounded by Washington Avenue on the north, South Fourth Street on the east, Dickinson Street on the south, and South Sixth Street on the west; approving the Urban Renewal Plan and determining that such plan and redevelopment proposal conforms to the General Locality Plan.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And an ordinance authorizing Disney Regional Entertainment, 800 South Main Street, Burbank, California, 91506, to construct and maintain various marquees, signs, architectural embellishment, and other encroachments over the public rights-of-way within an area bounded by Eighth Street, Ninth Street, Chestnut Street, and Market Street, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance authorizing Pavilion East Associates L.P., 350 Century Parkway, Building 630, Suite 300, Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, 19422, and the Philadelphia INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Parking Authority, 3101 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain various rigid awnings, electrified signs, electrified marquees, facade projection cornices, and signs over the public rights-of-way within an area bounded by Eighth Street, Ninth Street, Chestnut Street, Market Street, under certain terms and conditions.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1300 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Real Estate Tax" by changing the exemption schedule for improvements to deteriorated industrial, commercial, or other business properties.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The chief clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution agreeing to participate in the St. James Court Tax Increment Financing District, should the amended project plan submitted by the Philadelphia INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS Authority for Industrial Development be approved, and authorizing the Mayor or his designee as the City's representative for purposes of meeting with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, pursuant to Section 5a.(2) of the Tax Increment Financing District Act.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Councilman Dicicco

I move for the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Madam President, I offer two bills by request and one non-privileged resolution for which I ask immediate consideration. INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS

Council President Verna

The chief clerk will please read the title of the first bill.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Rhawn Street, both sides, from Jeans Street to Tabor Road.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee.

Chief Clerk Hauser

An ordinance establishing a parking regulation on Veree Road, both sides, from Hartel Street to Ripley Street.

Council President Verna

The bill will be referred to the appropriate committee. The clerk will please read the title of the resolution.

Chief Clerk Hauser

A resolution agreeing to participate in the Ashton Tax Increment Financing District, if it should be created by the Council City of Philadelphia, in accordance with the Tax Increment Financing Act of July 11, 1990, P.L. 465, No. 113, as amended, in the Ashton Redevelopment Area, in an area generally bounded by Grant Avenue on the north, Ashton Road on the east, Willits Road on the INTRO. OF BILLS, RESOLUTIONS south, and Bluegrass Road on the west.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman O'Neill.

Councilman O'Neill

Madam President, I move the adoption of the resolution. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly second that the resolution be adopted. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those voting for the resolution will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and the motion is carried. The Chair recognizes Councilman Longstreth.

Councilman Longstreth

Madam President, I have no bills or resolutions today.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the gentleman. The Chair recognizes Councilman Rizzo.

Councilman Rizzo

No bills or COMMITTEE REPORTS resolutions today, Madam President.

Council President Verna

Thank you.

Council President Verna

The next order of business is reports from committee. The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen for the report from the Finance Committee.

Councilman Cohen

Madam President, on behalf of the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Councilwoman Blackwell, the committee reports out four bills.

Council President Verna

The clerk will please read the report.

Chief Clerk Hauser

To the President and members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Finance, to which was referred Bill No. 990219, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1500 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Wage and Net Profits Tax" by changing the filing and payment date of the fourth quarter employee-earned tax return, respectfully reports it has considered the same and returns the attached bill to Council with a favorable recommendation. COMMITTEE REPORTS And Bill No. 990220, an ordinance amending Chapter 19-1700 of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Reviews, Refunds and Compromises" by changing time limit for filing a petition for refund of monies collected by the Department of Revenue, including, but not limited to, taxes, water and sewer rents, license fees, and interest and penalties thereon. And Bill No. 990285, an ordinance constituting the 16th Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1975, as amended ("The 1975 General Ordinance") authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, and the City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell either at public or private sale Gas Works Revenue Bonds, 1975 General Ordinance, 16th Series, to the City of Philadelphia in one or more subseries in the maximum aggregate principal amount of $80 million. And Bill No. 990286, an ordinance constituting the Second Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998, ("The 1998 General Ordinance") authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, and the City COMMITTEE REPORTS Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell either at public or private sale Gas Works Revenue Bonds, 19it 98 General Ordinance, Second Series, of the City of Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Cohen.

Councilman Cohen

Madam Chair, I move that the rules of Council be suspended to permit first reading of Bill No.'s 990285 and 990286. And I further move that Bill No.'s 990219 and 990220 be reported out of committee with a favorable recommendation. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading of Bill No.'s 990285 and 990286. All those in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it, and Bill No.'s 990219 and 990220 will be placed on our first-reading calendar -- I'm sorry -- will be placed on our first-reading calendar for next week. And Bill COMMITTEE REPORTS No.'s 990285 and 990286 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco for a report from the Committee on Streets and Services.

Councilman Dicicco

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services reports 16 bills out of committee with a favorable recommendation.

Chief Clerk Hauser

The clerk will please read the report.

Chief Clerk Hauser

To the President and Members of the Council of the City of Philadelphia: The Committee on Streets and Services to which was referred -Bill No. 980758, an ordinance authorizing the construction of water main and appurtenant work required to provide public water service in portions of Berkshire Street; And Bill No. 990139, an ordinance granting permission to Charles F. Falk, owner of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 36th and Market Streets, to construct, use, and maintain an electrical line and telecommunication COMMITTEE REPORTS fiber optic line over and across the north footway of Market Street for the purpose of supplying electrical and phone service to the newsstand; And Bill No. 990143, an ordinance authorizing the striking from City Plan 163 of East River Road from Calumet Street to the line of Fairmount Park, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990145, an ordinance granting permission to Girish P. Sanghvi, owner of the newsstand located on the northeast corner of Ninth and Market Streets, to construct, use, and maintain an electrical conduit and service line and a fiber optic conduit and phone service line in and under Ninth and Market Streets for the purpose of supplying electrical service and phone service to his newsstand, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990151, an ordinance authorizing the construction of a sanitary sewer and appurtenant work in a portion of Trevose Road; And Bill No. 990159, an ordinance authorizing Joseph Stanfa, 1328-30 South Warfield Street, Philadelphia, owner of the property COMMITTEE REPORTS 1300-1304 South Warfield Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain a canopy with support columns on and over the west footway of Warfield; And Bill No. 990165, an ordinance granting permission to COSTAR LLC, lessee of the property located at 325 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe on the north footway of Chestnut Street adjacent to 325 Chestnut Street, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990185, an ordinance authorizing Gino DeJesse, owner of the property 1824 East Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain various encroachments onto and over the east footway of 13th Street and the north footway of Passyunk Avenue adjacent to the property 1824 East Passyunk Avenue, all under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990202, an ordinance authorizing the University of the Arts, owner of the property 211 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain an electrified marquee attached to the property 211 South Broad Street and projecting over the east footway of Broad COMMITTEE REPORTS Street, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990204, an ordinance granting permission to Elizabeth M. Landy, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the traffic island at 13th Street, Passyunk Avenue, and Mifflin Street, to construct, use, and maintain overhead electrical and telecommunications lines from an existing utility pole on the island, over and across the public right-of-way, for the purpose of supplying electrical and phone service to her newsstand; And Bill No. 990205, an ordinance authorizing G&G Enterprises, owner of the property 1605 through 1627 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct and maintain a building encroachment with electric lights over and above the south footway and cartway of the 1600 block of the 1600 block of Stock Exchange Place, adjacent to the rear of the property 1605 through 1627 Sansom Street, all under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. , owner of the properties 116 through 122 South 17th Street, COMMITTEE REPORTS Philadelphia, and 1729 through 1735 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain building footings in and under the north footway of Sansom Street and the south footway of Stock Exchange Place, under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No.

Chief Clerk Hauser

990226, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an ordinance (Bill No. 980045) approved April 13, 1998, entitled "An Ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Spring Street from 13th Street to Clarion Street," under certain terms and conditions; And Bill No. 990250, an ordinance authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Streets to take steps necessary to rehabilitate or replace a retaining wall which is located in the rear of the premises 5203 through 5254 Berks Street, inclusive, and in the rear of the premises 5201 through 5245 Euclid Street, inclusive, and which has been identified as being in a dangerous and hazardous condition, and which constitutes an imminent threat to the safety, health, and general welfare of the public; and authorizing the COMMITTEE REPORTS assessment of the property legally liable for the aforesaid work; And Bill No. 990252, an ordinance granting permission to Thomas J. Elliot, t/a American Kitchens, 219 Quarry Street, Philadelphia, to construct and use and maintain a conduit and fiber optic telecommunication cable under and across Quarry Street, east of Bread Street, all under certain terms and conditions; And there is a withdrawn bill, Bill No. 990206. The Committee on Streets and Services, which was referred Bill No. 990206, an Ordinance granting permission to SPD Electric Supply System, 13500 Roosevelt Boulevard, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to construct, use, and maintain two conduits with fiber optic cable, under and across Hornig Road, south of Kubach Road, all under certain terms and conditions, respectfully reports it has withdrawn it at the request of the sponsor.

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman DiCicco.

Councilman Dicicco

Thank you, Madam President. The Committee on Streets and Services moves that the rules of Council be suspended so as COMMITTEE REPORTS to permit first reading on Bills No. 990139, 990145, 990159, 990165, 990185, 990202, 990203, 990204, 990205, 990218, 990226, and 990252. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and properly seconded that the rules of Council be suspended so as to permit first reading on Bill No.'s 990139, 990145, 990159, 990165, 990185, 990202, 990203, 990204, 990205, 990218, 990226, and 990252 on today's calendar. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. And Bill No.'s 990139, 990145, 990159, 990165, 990185, 990202, 990203, 990204, 990205, 990218, 990226, and 990252 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for today. Bill No.'s 980758, 990143, 990151, and 990250 will be placed on our first-reading calendar for next week. The record should reflect that Bill No. 990206 is withdrawn and will be so noted in the Journal. FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS Are there any other reports from committees?

Chief Clerk Hauser

No, Madam President.

Council President Verna

I beg your pardon?

Chief Clerk Hauser

No, Madam President.

Council President Verna

Thank you.

Council President Verna

The next order of business is consideration of the calendar. The chief clerk please reads bills on first-reading calendar.

Council President Verna

Bill No. 990118, an ordinance amending Title XXI of The Philadelphia Code entitled "Miscellaneous" by adding a new Chapter 21-1400 entitled "Tax Increment Financing District" and providing for certain reporting requirements.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. This bill -

Chief Clerk Hauser

Bill No. 990848, an ordinance to amend the Philadelphia Zoning Maps FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS by changing the zoning designations of certain of land located in the 35th Ward, within an area bounded by Oxford Avenue, Roosevelt Boulevard, Whittaker Avenue, Godfrey Street, Tabor Road, and Martins Mills Road.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for next week.

Chief Clerk Hauser

Bill No. 990285, an ordinance constituting the 16th Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1975, as amended, ("The 1975 General Ordinance") authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, and the City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell either at public or private sales Gas Works Revenue Bonds.

Council President Verna

Sorry. What was the number of that bill, please?

Chief Clerk Hauser

990285.

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next meeting. FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS

Chief Clerk Hauser

Bill No. 990286, an ordinance constituting the Second Supplemental Ordinance to the General Gas Works Revenue Bond Ordinance of 1998 ("The 1998 General Ordinance") authorizing the Mayor, the City Controller, an the City Solicitor, or a majority of them, to sell either at public or private sale Gas Works Revenue Bonds, 1998 General Ordinance, Second Series, in the City of Philadelphia.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for our next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990139, an ordinance granting permission to Charles M. Faulk, owner of the newsstand located on the northwest corner of 36th and Market Streets, to use and maintain electrical lines for telecommunications.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second- and final-reading calendar for our next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS 990145, an ordinance granting permission to Girish P. Sanghvi, owner of the newsstand located on the northeast corner of Ninth and Market Streets, to construct, use, and maintain electrical conduits and service lines and fiber optic conduit and phone service lines in and under Ninth and Market Streets.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for next week.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990159, an ordinance authorizing Joseph Stanfa, 1328-30 South Warfield Street, Philadelphia, owner of the property 1300-1304, South Warfield Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain a canopy with support columns.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990165, an ordinance granting permission to COSTAR LLC, lessee of the property located at 325 FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, to operate and maintain an open-air sidewalk cafe.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990185, an ordinance authorizing Gino DeJesse, owner of the property 1824 East Passyunk Avenue to construct and maintain various encroachments onto and over the east footway of 13th Street and the north footway of Passyunk Avenue.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990202, an ordinance authorizing the University of the Arts, owner of the property 211 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain an electrified marquee attached to the property 211 South Broad Street.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990203, an ordinance authorizing the University of the Arts, owner of the property 211 South Broad Street, to construct and maintain various encroachments onto and over the east footway of Broad Street and the south footway of Walnut Street.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990204, an ordinance granting permission to Elizabeth M. Landy, owner and operator of the newsstand located on the traffic island at 13th Street and Passyunk Avenue and Mifflin Street, to construct and maintain overhead electrical telecommunication lines.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting. FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990205, an ordinance authorizing G&G Enterprises, owner of the property 1605-1627 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain a building encroachment with electric lights over and above the south footway and cartway of the 1600 block of Stock Exchange Place.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990218, an ordinance authorizing LaLiberte, LP, owner of the properties 116 through 122 South 17th Street, Philadelphia, and 1729 through 1735 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, to construct and maintain building footings in an under the north footway of Sansom Street.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990226, an ordinance amending Section 2 of an FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS ordinance, Bill No. 980045, approved April 13, 1998 entitled "An ordinance authorizing and directing the revision of lines and grades on a portion of City Plan No. 307 by striking from the City Plan and vacating Spring Street from 13th Street to Clarion Street."

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting.

Chief Clerk Hauser

And Bill No. 990252, an ordinance granting permission to Thomas J. Elliot, t/a American Kitchens, 219 Quarry Street, Philadelphia, to construct, use, and maintain a conduit and fiber optic telecommunication cable under and across Quarry Street, east of Bridge Street.

Council President Verna

The Chair agrees. The bill read by the chief clerk will be placed on the second-reading and final-passage calendar for the next meeting. Are there any other bills?

Chief Clerk Hauser

I have none, Madam President. FIRST-READING CALENDAR BILLS

Council President Verna

Thank you. The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for the purpose of calling bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar.

Councilman Kenney

Thank you, Madam President. Both bills on second-reading and final-passage calendar are being held. There are no other bills for consideration.

Council President Verna

The Chair thanks the gentleman.

Council President Verna

Since we don't have any bills on the second-reading and final-passage calendar and we do not have any special business, I would ask if there are any speeches on the part of the Minority? (No speeches on the part of the Minority.)

Council President Verna

Are there any speeches on the part of Majority? (No speeches on the part of the Majority.)

Council President Verna

The Chair recognizes Councilman Kenney for a motion to ADJOURNMENT adjourn.

Councilman Kenney

Madam President, I move that Council stand adjourned till Thursday, May 27th, at 10 o'clock a.m. (Duly seconded.)

Council President Verna

It has been moved and seconded that Council stand adjourned until Thursday, May 27, 1999. All in favor will signify by saying aye. Those opposed? The ayes have it. Council stands adjourned until Thursday, May 27, 1999. Thank you. (Adjourned at 11:16 a.m.) C E R T I F I C A T E I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing proceedings of the Council of the City of Philadelphia of Thursday, May 13, 1999, were reported fully and accurately by me, and that this is a correct transcript of same. RE: STATED MEETING __________________________________, JOSEPHINE CARDILLO, Registered Professional Reporter